The ultimate 12-Day Adventure

Your first stop on the Gibb River Road is Derby, just an easy two-hour drive on a sealed road from Broome.

As the first settled town in the Kimberley, Derby offers unique insights into the region’s rich history, from its days as a convict outpost to its colonial era. Spend the day immersing yourself in the town's cultural heritage with visits to the Boab Prison Tree and the Wharfinger's House Museum.

In the evening, make your way to the Derby jetty to witness a mesmerising sunset. Keep an eye out for the impressive tides – Derby jetty experiences the largest tidal range in Australia, creating a truly astonishing sight as the sun dips below the horizon.

For an added touch of magic, take a leisurely stroll along the Sculptures on the Marsh trail as the sun sets, where unique artworks blend with the natural beauty of the landscape, creating an unforgettable experience.

Derby Attractions

Your next destination from Derby is Windjana Gorge National Park, nestled within the Napier Ranges—an area formed from an ancient reef system around 350 million years ago.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the gorge by taking a scenic stroll along the 3.5-kilometre walking trail. Along the way, marvel at the mesmerising water-streaked walls, towering up to 100 metres high, revealing ancient fossils of prehistoric life forms embedded within the limestone.

Keep your senses alert for natural pools dotted along the trail, where diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, fruit bats, and corellas, often gather, offering glimpses into the rich ecosystem thriving within this ancient landscape.

Book Windjana Gorge Campground

Leaving Windjana Gorge and heading for an approximate two-hour drive, you'll find yourself at Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge, an authentic oasis located 50 km off the Gibb River Road. This exceptional lodge offers a variety of accommodations, including ensuite eco-tents and homestead rooms, along with shady riverside camping options.

Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge provides unbeatable proximity to many of the region's major attractions, making it the perfect gateway to explore the wider West Kimberley region. Enjoy direct access to spectacular sites such as Horizontal Falls, the Buccaneer Archipelago, Twin Flame Falls, Pippa’s Pool, Bell Gorge, Tunnel Creek, Lennard Gorge, and Nala’s Secret.

Nestled in the heart of the Wunaamin Conservation Park, the lodge is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. After a day of adventure, guests can unwind with an ice-cold cocktail or beer at the alfresco bar, or savour exquisite dining options by Chef Brad Leahy at Pippa’s Corner restaurant. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge offers a perfect blend of both in a stunning natural setting.

Book Mount Hart

At Mount Hart, you can immerse yourself in the stunning wilderness of the Kimberley. Enjoy bushwalking through diverse landscapes, spot local wildlife, and explore scenic gorges. Cool off with a refreshing swim in the nearby Barkers Pool, or embark on a 4WD adventure to discover hidden gems. Additionally, Mount Hart offers scenic flights, providing breathtaking aerial views of the Kimberley's rugged beauty. The historic Mount Hart Homestead offers cozy glamping tents or a well-maintained campground, providing a chance to relax in a serene, remote setting.

Depart Mount Hart and head towards Lennard River Gorge, a scenic 1-hour drive away. Upon arrival, embark on a captivating two-kilometre walking track from the car park, tracing the creek line and ascending to the majestic King Leopold sandstone. As you journey, anticipate breathtaking vistas unfolding before you, culminating in a lookout offering dramatic views over the gorge and its cascading waterfalls.

Please note that access to the car park requires a 4WD vehicle due to the rugged terrain.

Continuing along the Gibb River Road, you'll encounter the picturesque Bell Gorge, renowned as the road's most iconic gorge. To reach this natural wonder, embark on a brief walk followed by a crossing of the picturesque Bell Creek (be cautious as it can be slippery). Here, witness waterfalls plunging an impressive 100 metres down flawless U-shaped cliffs into a serene pool below—a popular spot for a refreshing swim amidst the pristine Kimberley landscape.

Explore Bell Gorge

After departing Bell Gorge, continue your Gibb River Road adventure for another 100 kilometers until you reach the horseshoe-shaped Galvans Gorge, renowned as the most accessible gorge along the route. Immerse yourself in its natural splendor by swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Isdell River, swinging over it on a rope, or simply relishing the tranquility under the cascading waterfall while admiring the ancient boab trees clinging to the escarpment above.

From Galvans Gorge, it's a short 21-kilometre drive, passing through the Mount Barnett Roadhouse, to reach the campground. Nestled next to the serene pools of Manning River, this campground offers a perfect base for exploration. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding track to discover the spectacular waterfall and Yallamia Pool of Manning Gorge, with the added bonus of encountering Aboriginal rock art along the way.

As the day draws to a close, settle in for a night of camping at Mount Barnett camp ground, allowing the relaxing surroundings to envelop you in a sense of serenity and connection with nature.

Explore Manning Gorge

Start your day bright and early by veering off the Gibb River Road towards the captivating northwest region of the Kimberley, where the magnificent Mitchell River National Park awaits.

Along the way, treat yourself to a refreshing morning swim at the Gibb River crossing before pressing onward to your destination: Drysdale River Station, situated 171 kilometres from Manning Gorge. At Drysdale River Station, you'll have the choice of cozy cabin-style accommodations or serene campsites nestled within the station grounds.

Make the most of your afternoon by immersing yourself in the natural wonders surrounding the station. Embark on leisurely walks through the lush rainforests and expansive woodlands, or try your hand at fishing along the tranquil riverbanks. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Drysdale River Station offers the perfect retreat to unwind and connect with the Kimberley's stunning landscapes.

Book Drysdayle River Station

Embark on a 280-kilometre journey from Drysdale River Station to reach the iconic El Questro Wilderness Park, a sprawling working cattle station and premier holiday destination situated on the eastern edge of the Kimberley.

En route, you'll traverse the picturesque Pentecost River, renowned as one of the Kimberley's prime locations for barramundi fishing. This idyllic spot also offers a refreshing opportunity for a leisurely swim. With four major river systems weaving through the park, you'll encounter a diverse array of native wildlife, birds, and fish thriving in the pristine rivers, alongside hidden gems such as freshwater springs and majestic gorges.

Spanning over a million acres, El Questro Wilderness Park beckons adventurers to explore its uncharted depths and uncover its natural wonders. For a captivating introduction to the park's beauty, embark on a sunset cruise to Chamberlain Gorge, where the tranquil waters and rugged landscapes create an unforgettable setting.

Choose from a range of accommodations tailored to suit every preference, from the luxurious El Questro Homestead to tented cabins and authentic bush campsites, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience amidst the untamed Kimberley wilderness.

Book your stay El Questo Homestead

Savor the day exploring El Questro Wilderness Park, beginning with a leisurely soak in the soothing thermal pools at Zebedee Springs. A short stroll through the ancient Livistona forest and pandanus palms leads you to this tranquil oasis.

Delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region by uncovering the ancient Windjana Aboriginal rock art, or opt to join local guides on an invigorating hike to Emma Gorge—one of the Kimberley's most breathtaking and easily accessible gorges.

Immerse yourself in the park's natural wonders with 4WD safaris to the awe-inspiring Cockburn Range, or try your hand at fishing for the prized one-metre-long barramundi that abound in the area's waters. For a bird's-eye view of the spectacular landscape, consider embarking on scenic flights offering panoramic sight of the Kimberley.

Pick your El Questo experience

After staying at El Questro, it's an hour's drive to The Grotto waterhole, a hidden gem just off the Great Northern Highway—an experience sure to leave you enchanted by the Kimberley's rugged beauty.

After exploring The Grotto, continue your journey with a one and a half hour drive to Lake Argyle. Upon your arrival, make your way to the lake where you can embark on an afternoon cruise to discover the vast waters and picturesque islands of the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. It's the perfect way to unwind and conclude your day, surrounded by the natural beauty of this breathtaking landscape.

Book your cruise over Lake Argyle

Dedicate a full day to exploring one of the world’s most fascinating landforms—the Bungle Bungle Range in the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park.

Start your adventure with a thrilling helicopter flight, offering awe-inspiring views of the range from above. Afterward, delve deeper into the park on foot, immersing yourself in its natural wonders and unique beauty.

From Kununurra, drive to Fitzroy Crossing, and stop 100 kilometres before at the remarkable Mimbi Caves. These caves, among the oldest in Western Australia, offer a captivating glimpse into the region's geological and cultural history.

Check in to the well-maintained Mimbi Caves campground, where you can set up your tent or park your caravan with modern amenities ensuring a comfortable stay. Join a guided tour through the intricate cave system, revealing stunning limestone formations, ancient fossils, and rock art. Learn about the caves' significance to the Gooniyandi people, the land's traditional custodians.

After the tour, relax at the campground, enjoy a meal under the stars, and reflect on the natural and cultural wonders you've discovered. This stop perfectly combines exploration and relaxation on your Kimberley journey.

Book your tour and stay at Mimbi Caves